Auckland To Piha Weekend Roadie

The rough Māori translation of Titirangi is ‘fringe of heaven,’ which seems appropriate given its placement at the gateway of the Waitakere Ranges and Auckland’s western treasures. It’s a short 25-minute drive from Auckland to the fringe of heaven, but one which sees you cross the boundary between city streets and endless native forest. Stop for lunch in the historic Lopdell House, where Deco Eatery has transformed the 1930s Spanish Mission architecture into a bustling cafe/restaurant. To sample their best combinations of traditional Turkish cuisine with fresh New Zealand produce, try the Lahmajun or Fattoush Salad. We think they’re pretty delish.

Right next door to Lopdell House and Deco Eatery is the Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery, a modern building which has a stark contrast (in both design and colour) against its much more senior neighbour. Te Uru is the regional gallery for West Auckland, creating a space where local art, crafts and design can be brought forward to the world stage. Have a wander around the beautiful interior and check out the pretty spectacular vista of the gallery’s lush surrounds whilst soaking in the culture of the community... Who said the Wild West was just beaches and bush walks?

There’s nothing more Kiwi than a dinner of fish and chips by the beach, so head to the Piha Surf Lifesaving Clubrooms for just that. Over the sand dunes from the beach, the Surf Club Kitchen is open until late Thursday to Sunday, and is the epitome of coastal New Zealand lifestyle. You can either stay and eat your meal amongst the atmosphere of the ‘clubbies,’ or take it down for a picnic on the sand; either way, you will be positioned perfectly to watch the sun meeting the horizon.

** Please note the surf club restaurant has recently closed but is meant to be reopening soon. Check their site.**

There are several boutique and luxury accommodation options in Piha, with Airbnbs, B&Bs and cottages constantly popping up. There is something for everyone and every budget, most of which include peaceful bush surroundings and/or ocean views. However, possibly the best option for a short stay is the Piha Domain Campground, which is barely a five minute walk from the beach or cafes. Plug in your snazzy car so it can charge overnight and then pop up a tent so you can wake to the sound of waves crashing and native birds chirping.

To refuel after your morning activity, Piha Cafe is open 6 days a week from 8am serving up hearty Kiwi breakfasts and tasty coffee. It’s the best place in the small neighbourhood to embrace the relaxed and coastal atmosphere over your morning coffee, so take your time and draw your beachside morning out as long as you can. It’s always worth indulging in their famous Kiwi Fry-Up, especially when you’ve got a bit of a drive ahead of you. And you’ll be thrilled your car is fully charged, because you’re about to scale the Waitakeres.

After a windy but beautiful 50-minute drive (make sure you stop at any lookout points along the way because the view of Auckland City is jaw-dropping!), you’ll pull up in Kumeu, West Auckland’s wine-growing getaway region. If you’re lucky enough to be in the rural district on the third Sunday of the month, the Kumeu Farmers’ Market is a must-do for arts, crafts, food trucks and children’s entertainment. However, if the stars don’t quite align, the Kumeu Arts Centre is also worth a visit to see the work of local artists. Check their website ahead of schedule to see what will be exhibiting when you’re in the ‘hood.

If you feel it’s necessary, take an optional 15-minute break to bump up your battery charge at the Vector fast charge station at the Kumeu New World.

For a lunch spot that combines history, scenery and gastronomy, The Riverhead is a dining complex full of character. Choose between The Landing Restaurant, The Portage Neighbourhood Bar and The Boathouse Function Centre (which is only open to the public on Sundays) to match the vibe you’re after, and enjoy the fresh air at the head of the Waitematā Harbour. Over 160 years old, The Riverhead is thought to be the oldest riverside tavern in New Zealand, but the stunning renovations would never make you believe it.

Whilst you’re in the region, you can’t not to go to a cellar door or two to taste the notes of Kumeu’s wineries. Soljans Estate, The Hunting Lodge and Coopers Creek (who have Sunday Jazz during the summer months) are all great picks, where you will learn about their winemaking processes whilst having a guided wine tasting experience. The party doesn’t have to stop there either, because all cellar doors have their full ranges for sale so you can bring a few bottles back to Auckland with you.